I picked up a used Core 2 Duo Mac Mini to replace my aging (but still working) PowerPC version.

This is our family computer that will be doing double duty as the kid's TV monitor in the great room. It'll be about a 50/50 split for computer and TV usage.

I've connected it to my in-law's 26" Samsung and it looks great. I've been trying to look for something similar but I'm not that familiar w/ the 2010 models and most reviews concentrate on 42" and above. I want it to be at least 720p, 1080p would be nice. I may opt to connect an HD Tivo via HDMI but not a requirement. I can still use Slingplayer on the Mini for now.

I'm wondering if I should consider PC monitors of the same size as well. I can see the advantage of higher pixel density but the contrast is less (as in 1000:1). Not sure if I should be that concerned.

I almost got a 27" iMac because of that stunning display. I'm trying to duplicate that w/ a budget setup. Any specific display help would be greatly appreciated.

I think part of that is the adjustment from my smaller monitor to this one. I also haven't had a chance to calibrate it yet...still looks pretty good the way it is though. As well it's a TN panel which apparently isn't as good as an IPS (sic) panel. Regardless, I certainly didn't mean to say it wasn't good. I quite like it and am very happy with my purchase.